"Steven P. McNicoll" wrote in
nk.net:


"Judah" wrote in message
. ..

The NTSB report refers to a descent into the water caused by spatial
disorientation.

A simple Altitude Alert from a controller could have reminded him to
look at his altimiter and VSI and realize that he was pointed into
the water instead of into the Horizon, potentially yeilding different
results.


Would an altitude alert end his disorientation? Why would the
controller issue an altitude alert? He was operating VFR, he wasn't
required to hold any particular altitude.

It might have. It largely depends on the exact nature of his disorientation
- which neither of us know for sure.

From what I hear on the radio, flight following is often a lot more
than just traffic alerts...


Like what? What do you hear on the radio?

Everything from weather and turbulence reports to personal greetings and
brief personal conversations - even sports score announcements! Many
controllers seem friendly and are happy to assist pilots in any way they
can.